A college athletic director oversees all aspects of an athletics program, including the hiring of coaches and administrators, scheduling, promoting programs and events, constructing budgets, fund raising and so much more. Today, we continue our Q&A highlighting the 14 athletic directors in the Pacific West Conference.
Patrick Guillen came to Hilo nearly ten years ago to become the Director of Athletics for the Vulcans. His previous history includes holding the same position at CSU Dominguez Hills, working his way up the ladder after serving in external relations and media relations. He began his collegiate athletics career at his alma mater, Vanguard University (then Southern California College) as the Sports Information Director.
*What was your first job in college athletics?.
My first job was at my alma mater Southern California College (now Vanguard University) as the Sports Information Director where my former AD, Ron Prettyman, was dumb enough to hire me. :-)
*When did you first realize that you wanted to be an A.D?
I never really desired to be an AD as I thoroughly enjoyed Media and External Relations. But when Ron Prettyman left CSUDH to become the AD at Indiana State, I was asked to serve as the Acting AD and it was during that time that I felt I could make a positive impact in that role.
*Who have been some of your mentors during your career and what have you learned from them?
As an SID, I had two great mentors and influencers. Our very own Russ Blunck, and current Assistant AD for Media Relations at CSU Monterey Bay Kevin Gilmore. Both truly "showed me the ropes" as to what an SID does (back in the stoneage before email, internet, etc.) and how to have fun with it. As an AD, my mentors have been and continue to be Ron Prettyman and Dan Guerrero (former AD at CSUDH/UC Irvine/UCLA). Ron preached that students always come first and that we are here for them, and Dan always emphasized to me that "the big time is where you are." Both were great examples of how to lead with integrity and I will always be grateful to them. Lastly, my beloved mom who lived her life by the Golden Rule and taught me to do the same. I try my best.
*What advice would you give someone interested in a career in college athletics administration?
I would recommend entering the field either through an internship or volunteering to get your foot in the door initially. Once you do that, find out what area you are most passionate about (media/public relations, academic advising, compliance, event management, facilities, etc.) then go for it! Get some help along the way and ask someone that is respected in their field to be your mentor to help guide and give advice. At that point, your talent, ability and ambition, along with some luck, will determine your course.
*Favorite Binge-Worthy Show
The West Wing
*Favorite Fast Food
Gotta be In-N-Out Burger
*Your Own Greatest Sporting Moment as a Coach or Player?
Tough one. Qualifying through rabbit squads for Professional Bowlers Association sectionals as an 18-year old was pretty cool. But mostly I have been blessed with lifelong friendships and relationships that have been built through sports going all the way back to my youth. Also, being a small part of the 2000 NCAA II Men's Soccer National Championship team at CSU Dominguez Hills, followed by the 2008 Championship was special and something I will never forget.
*Your favorite team or athlete of all time and why?
Besides my Vulcans, I am a diehard, lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan. Yes, I've been disappointed since 1961, but a diehard nonetheless. And my favorite player of all-time is non other than the greatest QB that ever lived, Fran "The Man" Tarkenton! SKOL!
